The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) has announced major updates to the annual Lantern Competition, an event cherished across generations.
According to Senior Officer for Training, Promotion and Development Anthony Wilkie Jr., the changes ensure the competition remains relevant while staying rooted in Saint Lucian culture.
Wilkie explained that the CDF had “taken some time this year based on consultations with artists, judges, et cetera, to revise the guidelines for entries of the lantern competition, as well as the adjudication score sheet.”
He said the revisions reflect “modernisation” which he described as “something that is relevant and something that we need to pay attention to.”
Although updated, Wilkie assured creators that “the revisions are nothing too strenuous or nothing too far from what builders and creatives are accustomed to.” He encouraged participants to review the guidelines since they are expected to “pay attention if you are interested in creating this year and being part of the competition.”
The CDF has also clarified the three entry categories. Wilkie stated that in the traditional category, entries must focus on “traditional architecture of Saint Lucia, churches, museums, even our very own National Cultural Center.” He explained that the category features “architecture which represents the Saint Lucian landscape” and requires the traditional cardboard method.
He added that the national category “speaks to national pride, patriotism,” and is “more thematic than structural.” Entries must therefore be “strong in their portrayal of national pride.”
He said the modern contemporary category remains popular because “it really speaks to the creatives and promotes that creative energy and that creative vibe.”
The CDF hopes the revisions will inspire innovation while preserving the heritage that makes the Lantern Festival one of Saint Lucia’s cultural treasures.